Gloomy Facts About Marie Prevost, The Forgotten Star Of Light Comedies
Behind the glitz and glamour, Marie Prevost faced personal struggles and heartbreaking setbacks. From her scandalous marriages to the secrets she held close to protect her career, her life was a fascinating blend of triumphs and tragedies.
1. She Had A Tragic Start
Born on November 8, 1896, Marie Prevost grew up in a happy Canadian family—but tragedy tore them apart. Her birth father, Arthur "Teddy" Dunn, worked as a railroad conductor. Sadly, when Prevost was just an infant, Dunn passed when gas leaked into one of the rail tunnels. However, it wasn't long before Prevost's mother, Hughina, found a new man to warm her bed.
2. Her Life Changed Dramatically
Shortly after the dreadful incident, Prevost’s mother married Frank Prevost, giving birth to a girl named Marjorie—her family called her “Peg”.
Prevost’s life had already begun to change at a very fast pace—the family constantly traveling due to her stepfather's job. They finally settled in Los Angeles. But little did Prevost know, her life was about to change forever.
Photoplay magazine, Wikimedia Commons
3. She Landed A Good Job
Following her high school graduation in 1915, Prevost began working as a secretary at a successful law firm. She was mostly an “errand girl” for the firm, but the firm had some “big-time” clients, such as the Keystone Studios. On one occasion, Prevost went down to Keystone Studios—and experienced the biggest plot twist of her life.
4. She Had A Bizarre Encounter
On that fateful day, Marie Prevost had a simple task: She had to get a signature from Mack Sennett, the head of Keynote Studios. But while waiting to see him, a large man approached her in an excited manner and said, “You, stand over here, and when I give you a signal run to the table over there and sit down on the chair. And remember to smile for the camera”.
